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The Malhotra Bride
Sunita Rishi’s just turned twenty, having completed her graduation. She wants to fly free as a bird, explore career options and travel the world. Does she have a choice when Mamma & Pappa insist on arranging her marriage? Born in a rich business family steeped in tradition, Sunita has a tough job on her hands. Can she stop the tide?
Tall, dark and handsome, Akshay Malhotra is the catch of the decade. The only son of Billionaire Raj Malhotra, he’s in a strange fix. His father’s keen that Akshay meets Sunita with marriage in mind. He’s too close to his parents to say ‘no’ for the preliminary meeting. And then he comes face-to-face with Sunita….
Will Sunita be falling from the frying pan into the fire when she agrees to become The Malhotra Bride?
Tall, dark and handsome, Akshay Malhotra is the catch of the decade. The only son of Billionaire Raj Malhotra, he’s in a strange fix. His father’s keen that Akshay meets Sunita with marriage in mind. He’s too close to his parents to say ‘no’ for the preliminary meeting. And then he comes face-to-face with Sunita….
Will Sunita be falling from the frying pan into the fire when she agrees to become The Malhotra Bride?
143 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2009
123 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Sundari Venkatraman
99 books230 followersSundari Venkatraman is an Indie Author who has 76 self-published books to her credit. These books have consistently featured in the Top 100 Bestseller Lists on Amazon India, Amazon USA, Amazon UK, Amazon Canada and Amazon Australia in both romance as well as Asian Drama categories. Her latest hot romances have all been on #1 Bestseller slot in Amazon India for over a month.
These days, the author is independently publishing her novels in paperback format under her banner Flaming Sun, printed and distributed by Notion Press.
Even as a child, Sundari absolutely loved the ‘lived happily ever after’ syndrome and she grew up on a steady diet of fairy tales, Phantom comics and Mandrake comics. It was always about good triumphing over evil and a happy ending after the protagonists surmounted all unexpected obstacles.
Once she entered her teens, Sundari switched her loyalties from fairy tales to Mills & Boon. While she loved reading both of these, she kept visualising what would have happened if there were similar situations happening in India; to local heroes and heroines. And of course, the joy of vanquishing the ubiquitous evil villains! Her imagination soared and she happily ensconced herself in a rosy romantic cocoon for many years.
Then came the writing—a true bolt from the blue! And Sundari Venkatraman has never looked back.
Use hashtag #60at60
You can connect with the author here: https://linktr.ee/sundarivenkatraman
These days, the author is independently publishing her novels in paperback format under her banner Flaming Sun, printed and distributed by Notion Press.
Even as a child, Sundari absolutely loved the ‘lived happily ever after’ syndrome and she grew up on a steady diet of fairy tales, Phantom comics and Mandrake comics. It was always about good triumphing over evil and a happy ending after the protagonists surmounted all unexpected obstacles.
Once she entered her teens, Sundari switched her loyalties from fairy tales to Mills & Boon. While she loved reading both of these, she kept visualising what would have happened if there were similar situations happening in India; to local heroes and heroines. And of course, the joy of vanquishing the ubiquitous evil villains! Her imagination soared and she happily ensconced herself in a rosy romantic cocoon for many years.
Then came the writing—a true bolt from the blue! And Sundari Venkatraman has never looked back.
Use hashtag #60at60
You can connect with the author here: https://linktr.ee/sundarivenkatraman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 14, 2014
20 and you're feeling like you're going to own the world! But wait! What? No, You have to settle down.
But that's not the scenario for the 20year old Sunita in the book, The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman. She is fresh out of college, eyes sparkling with aspiring dreams and exploring new adventures. But in India, parents of any girl, who has just passed out of her college, starts worrying about their daughter's secure future and start looking for a suitable groom. Well, similarly, Sunita too has to go through the same trauma. Reluctantly, she agrees upon her parent's wishes.
The prospect or the match that Sunita's parents are looking forward to is the only son of The Malhotra Garments owner, named Akhshay Malhotra. What I can I say about Akhshay, hot--check, brooding--check, handsome--check, tall--check...Can a girl want anything more to drool upon? Well no of course not, but for Sunita, who wants to explore the world on her own, will the sparks fly for this rich, handsome dude?
Indeed a no-nonsense romantic drama, that explores that aspects of arranged marriage in our country, India. They say arranged marriages are way too boring and not romantic, compared to love marriages. But in the book, The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman, the author delves into the prospect and concept behind arranged marriages and how a girl's youth gets wrapped up in serving as a bride of a rich family.
I was provided a review copy of this book by the author.
The pace is good and it's indeed a very short romantic love-story. The dialogues are quite interesting and lots of conversations are included by the author, to keep us, the readers engaged into the book. The characters are quite strong and has an air of confidence among them, like Sunita being the obedient girl of parents with dreams of her own and not following any trends too blindly. Akhshay being the cool dude, can't say "NO" to his parents wishes, but is way too sweet and caring. Even Sunita's parents and relatives and Akhshay's parents and relatives, all are portrayed very strikingly.
Yeah it's a bit Bollywoodish style drama for sure! But if you want to read something quirky, then grab this book for sure.
But that's not the scenario for the 20year old Sunita in the book, The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman. She is fresh out of college, eyes sparkling with aspiring dreams and exploring new adventures. But in India, parents of any girl, who has just passed out of her college, starts worrying about their daughter's secure future and start looking for a suitable groom. Well, similarly, Sunita too has to go through the same trauma. Reluctantly, she agrees upon her parent's wishes.
The prospect or the match that Sunita's parents are looking forward to is the only son of The Malhotra Garments owner, named Akhshay Malhotra. What I can I say about Akhshay, hot--check, brooding--check, handsome--check, tall--check...Can a girl want anything more to drool upon? Well no of course not, but for Sunita, who wants to explore the world on her own, will the sparks fly for this rich, handsome dude?
Indeed a no-nonsense romantic drama, that explores that aspects of arranged marriage in our country, India. They say arranged marriages are way too boring and not romantic, compared to love marriages. But in the book, The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman, the author delves into the prospect and concept behind arranged marriages and how a girl's youth gets wrapped up in serving as a bride of a rich family.
I was provided a review copy of this book by the author.
The pace is good and it's indeed a very short romantic love-story. The dialogues are quite interesting and lots of conversations are included by the author, to keep us, the readers engaged into the book. The characters are quite strong and has an air of confidence among them, like Sunita being the obedient girl of parents with dreams of her own and not following any trends too blindly. Akhshay being the cool dude, can't say "NO" to his parents wishes, but is way too sweet and caring. Even Sunita's parents and relatives and Akhshay's parents and relatives, all are portrayed very strikingly.
Yeah it's a bit Bollywoodish style drama for sure! But if you want to read something quirky, then grab this book for sure.
August 8, 2021
Every single girl wants to enjoy her freedom and establish herself in career before getting married as they think that marriage as an institution is a kind of bondage and upto an extent it isnt wrong either.
Sunita has always wanted to be independent and live her life fully but her family thinks differently . They want her to get married as soon as possible. On the other side we have Akshay who is helping his father in his business but felt robbed when he come to know that even his family is trying its best to tie his knots with none other than Sunita . So both the protagonists find themselves in an unwanted situation and the rest of the tale forms how they try to defy the situation and create circumstances so that both reject each other .
The book is a kind of classical contrast to Chetan Bhagat 'Two States' in a few ways. The best part of the story is narration of the author. The choice of words is impeccable. And the tale is hilarious at various junctures so much so that a constant smile stays on the face of readers while skimming through the novel. Characterisation is pretty good too . And the cover just like all other books by the writer is very beautiful. The book builds upon a theme that is experienced and known to everyone hence the relatibility factor is quite high.
Overall an entertaining and engaging read.
Sunita has always wanted to be independent and live her life fully but her family thinks differently . They want her to get married as soon as possible. On the other side we have Akshay who is helping his father in his business but felt robbed when he come to know that even his family is trying its best to tie his knots with none other than Sunita . So both the protagonists find themselves in an unwanted situation and the rest of the tale forms how they try to defy the situation and create circumstances so that both reject each other .
The book is a kind of classical contrast to Chetan Bhagat 'Two States' in a few ways. The best part of the story is narration of the author. The choice of words is impeccable. And the tale is hilarious at various junctures so much so that a constant smile stays on the face of readers while skimming through the novel. Characterisation is pretty good too . And the cover just like all other books by the writer is very beautiful. The book builds upon a theme that is experienced and known to everyone hence the relatibility factor is quite high.
Overall an entertaining and engaging read.
March 27, 2014
Sundari Venkatraman, has taken a leap into the self publishing world with her second novel, 'The Malhotra Bride.' When this book, landed on my Kindle, the first thing that striked me is the cover of the book. Illustrated by Mr. Prashant Kamble, this scene depicts an Indian marriage ritual being performed. A scene of 'Dilwale Dulhaniya le Jayenge' flashes in my inward eye. Got my bag of popcorn and clicked on the book in my Kindle and was soon introduced to Sunita and Akshay.
She…
She is Sunita, a young girl from a rich business class family. Though very much loved by her family, she has one problem. She's bound by family traditions which are nothing short of male domination. [Itching to give a long lecture here, but don't want to divert from the topic :)] Sunita wants to work, but due to parental pressures, she is forced to agree to an arranged marriage. She does not take this kindly.
He…
He is Akshay Malhotra - the scion of the Malhotra family. The rich guy who is NOT a brat! He has a loving relationship with his parents, hard-working and OMG! without any vices. God! Make more like him, please. When he hears about his parent's arranging a marriage for him, he is a bit hesitant but when his dad insists he agrees to 'see'the girl.[This is another debatable topic.]
And he falls in love…
The love story…
So, the boy meets girl and falls in love. End of story :) popcorn is finished and time to go home.
But did I not tell you she wants to work and not marry. I wasn't bluffing, dear readers. When they meet for the first time, Sunita does tell Akshay that.!
Akshay is stunned. Here he was in love and this beautiful girl didn't want to marry him. So, what could a guy do? Think like a businessman that he was of course! Akshay proposes to Sunita but uh..... Not as a regular marriage proposal. You really think I'm going to tell you further than this? :)
Why a 5 Star ? See the reasoning @
http://rubinaramesh.blogspot.com/2014...
She…
She is Sunita, a young girl from a rich business class family. Though very much loved by her family, she has one problem. She's bound by family traditions which are nothing short of male domination. [Itching to give a long lecture here, but don't want to divert from the topic :)] Sunita wants to work, but due to parental pressures, she is forced to agree to an arranged marriage. She does not take this kindly.
He…
He is Akshay Malhotra - the scion of the Malhotra family. The rich guy who is NOT a brat! He has a loving relationship with his parents, hard-working and OMG! without any vices. God! Make more like him, please. When he hears about his parent's arranging a marriage for him, he is a bit hesitant but when his dad insists he agrees to 'see'the girl.[This is another debatable topic.]
And he falls in love…
The love story…
So, the boy meets girl and falls in love. End of story :) popcorn is finished and time to go home.
But did I not tell you she wants to work and not marry. I wasn't bluffing, dear readers. When they meet for the first time, Sunita does tell Akshay that.!
Akshay is stunned. Here he was in love and this beautiful girl didn't want to marry him. So, what could a guy do? Think like a businessman that he was of course! Akshay proposes to Sunita but uh..... Not as a regular marriage proposal. You really think I'm going to tell you further than this? :)
Why a 5 Star ? See the reasoning @
http://rubinaramesh.blogspot.com/2014...
February 13, 2016
Reads like a fifteen year old's first novel.
At least it was over quickly.
I have little patience with books that are 30% description of clothes and furniture and people's appearance.
I have no patience at all with books that describe the leads every time they entered the scene. It's a story, not a police report.
At least it was over quickly.
I have little patience with books that are 30% description of clothes and furniture and people's appearance.
I have no patience at all with books that describe the leads every time they entered the scene. It's a story, not a police report.
March 8, 2018
Beautiful
It was the first book I read from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Loved the pairing of Sunita and Akshay.
It was the first book I read from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Loved the pairing of Sunita and Akshay.
January 19, 2018
The characters:
Sunita, 20, the younger daughter of Gokul and Leela Rishi, of Rishi Enterprises, is just out of college and wants to do a course in interior design, travel abroad and be independent. She belongs to a traditional family and her autocratic father wants her have an arranged marriage. Her father is a dominating male who feels women are made for marriage and home. She respects her mother and grandfather. She can twist her mother around her finger and her grandfather dotes on her and understands her. She has an older sister, Sandhya, who has had an arranged marriage.
Akshay Malhotra, 28, the only son of Raj and Tanuja Malhotra, is the heir of the Malhotra Empire. He has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Syracruse University. Unlike the Rishis, the Malhotras have a free, modern and non-formal relationship. They give him complete freedom to do what he wants.
The story:
One day, Sunita’s mother tells her that the Malhotras would be coming with their son, Akshay, with whom her horoscope matches perfectly and that she should meet them. She protests and goes to her grandfather who tells her that the only way she can be saved from the wedding is ‘if the ‘boy’ rejects her’. In the meanwhile, Akshay is upset that his father is forcing him to meet a girl for matrimonial purposes, as he Is not keen on an arranged match. But, after seeing her photograph, decides to see her for himself and waits outside her computer Institute to check her out and decides to go and meet her in the evening. Sunita also sees him (not knowing who he is) and decides ‘to send Akshay Malhotra packing’.
In the evening, he goes to her house to meet her and they are both startled to see each other and she tells him that she does not want to get married to anyone now because of her dreams and asks him to reject her. He tells her that her father would get her married off to someone else and tells her to marry him and he would help her realize her dreams.
Next morning, she hears her father telling her mother that if the Malhotras were to refuse, he would hold a Swayamwar and she decides to go ahead with Akshay’s plan. And thus starts the story of smitten Akshay trying to woo Sunita to become the Malhotra bride with all the twists and turns.
The story is sweet and once I started it, I could not keep the book down, I was so hooked to it. The characters have been developed well and are very real: Akshay is someone every girl dreams of and Sunita is really confused. Grandpa Ratan is endearing and I loved the way Raj Malhotra calls Sunita ‘Princess’. It felt that I was watching a Bollywood movie, only the songs were missing.
Highly recommended
Sunita, 20, the younger daughter of Gokul and Leela Rishi, of Rishi Enterprises, is just out of college and wants to do a course in interior design, travel abroad and be independent. She belongs to a traditional family and her autocratic father wants her have an arranged marriage. Her father is a dominating male who feels women are made for marriage and home. She respects her mother and grandfather. She can twist her mother around her finger and her grandfather dotes on her and understands her. She has an older sister, Sandhya, who has had an arranged marriage.
Akshay Malhotra, 28, the only son of Raj and Tanuja Malhotra, is the heir of the Malhotra Empire. He has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Syracruse University. Unlike the Rishis, the Malhotras have a free, modern and non-formal relationship. They give him complete freedom to do what he wants.
The story:
One day, Sunita’s mother tells her that the Malhotras would be coming with their son, Akshay, with whom her horoscope matches perfectly and that she should meet them. She protests and goes to her grandfather who tells her that the only way she can be saved from the wedding is ‘if the ‘boy’ rejects her’. In the meanwhile, Akshay is upset that his father is forcing him to meet a girl for matrimonial purposes, as he Is not keen on an arranged match. But, after seeing her photograph, decides to see her for himself and waits outside her computer Institute to check her out and decides to go and meet her in the evening. Sunita also sees him (not knowing who he is) and decides ‘to send Akshay Malhotra packing’.
In the evening, he goes to her house to meet her and they are both startled to see each other and she tells him that she does not want to get married to anyone now because of her dreams and asks him to reject her. He tells her that her father would get her married off to someone else and tells her to marry him and he would help her realize her dreams.
Next morning, she hears her father telling her mother that if the Malhotras were to refuse, he would hold a Swayamwar and she decides to go ahead with Akshay’s plan. And thus starts the story of smitten Akshay trying to woo Sunita to become the Malhotra bride with all the twists and turns.
The story is sweet and once I started it, I could not keep the book down, I was so hooked to it. The characters have been developed well and are very real: Akshay is someone every girl dreams of and Sunita is really confused. Grandpa Ratan is endearing and I loved the way Raj Malhotra calls Sunita ‘Princess’. It felt that I was watching a Bollywood movie, only the songs were missing.
Highly recommended
September 2, 2014
The Malhotra Bride is the story of a well brought up, slightly repressed, dutiful daughter, Sunita. Sundari Venkataraman, the author, saves Sunita from being a mere wimp by fortifying her character with spirit. Sunita amply demonstrates her spirited side, when she stands up to her domineering father, and when she seduces her new husband, Akshay Malhotra. The author has written a sweet love story; it is fun to watch Sunita and Akshay fall in love. As the story progresses, it is interesting to see how the physical relationship grows, even though Sunita remains a 'good girl' until her wedding night, when - oh boy!...I'll leave you to find out the rest when you read 'The Malhotra Bride'!
May 5, 2015
Just finished reading The Maholtra Bride and would love to hear more about Sunita and Akshay. This book would make a perfect screenplay for a Bollywood movie...or even a soap opera on zee tv. Especially loved the detailed descriptions of clothing, jewelry and makeup,a well as the explanations of the wedding ceremony. Also the exploration of tradition vs modern day India in regards to arranged marriages.
I would have appreciate a little more in depth character development, but all in all this was a fun and pleasant book to read. With constant twists and surprises in plot, it was difficult to put down.
I would have appreciate a little more in depth character development, but all in all this was a fun and pleasant book to read. With constant twists and surprises in plot, it was difficult to put down.
February 14, 2018
Hello All …. Before going deep into the review of The Malhotra Bride by Sundari Venkatraman, I would like to congratulate the Author for her efforts. Every Literary work is unique in itself and the review given below is an honest result of my understanding and must not be taken otherwise.
Let’s quickly go through the ratings
Title : 4/5
Cover : 4/5
Blurb : 2.5/5
Plot : 3.5/5
Language Used : 4/5
Presentation : 3/5
Overall : 3.5/5
About the Book : The story revolves around a girl named Sunita Rishi and a boy named Akshay Malhotra. Born and brought up in a traditional and typical Rishi family Sunita's father wants her to get married as she is approaching 21. Though she is not against getting married, she is concerned about her career and freedom which has never been her father's priority. She feels depressed with the idea of getting married and felt worse as she does not have any say in matters related to her own life. Akshay is a successful businessman and helps his father to run the family business. Akshay almost skipped a beat hearing his father about his marriage proposal. Blessed with a charming personality he thinks of wedding to be an end to his freedom. Families of both Sunita Rishi and Akshay Malhotra are ready to tie knots while Sunita has her plans to simply make the boy say "NO" to her. What would be the result of their meeting? Would she become "The Malhotra Bride"? Find out by reading this novel.
About Writing : Sundari Venkatraman has crafted the story very well by keeping it simple yet interesting. The choice of subject is noteworthy as almost every reader can relate and connect to the story without any difficulty. One of the best things about her writing is that she has kept the flow and tone of the story remarkably smooth and understandable. There is no denying the fact that once you start reading this novel you won't be able to put it down. The story is not thrilling and adventure driven rather it is soothing to mind and one can read the whole story in one go . Its magic of her words and plots which places a permanent smile on one's face while reading and makes one feel the emotions involved in the story. No doubt the author has written each word from depth of her hearth and has poured her experience and wit in the story. I enjoyed reading this novel very much. Though there is nothing unpredictable about the story but even that has it own charm which adds value to it. The word usage is decent and every chapter makes you feel good while you read it. All the characters are beautifully sketched and are believable. One can simply relate each character to people around in the society.
The theme of the novel makes the reader understand the concept of love and importance of knowing one's partner. It is the understanding between the couple that matters the most. Giving respect and importance to partner's thoughts, dreams and ideologies makes the couple understand each other which further strengthens their relationship.
Critical Review:
1. The blurb of the story does not suggest the whole idea of the novel.
2. The novel is a light read and portrays just one side of the so called "Marriage Fears".
3. It offers too less to change reader's perception about marriage.
Despite all critical views, the words and story seem to come out from depth of Author’s heart and her effort is appreciable. I once again congratulate her and wish her luck for her future endeavors.
Let’s quickly go through the ratings
Title : 4/5
Cover : 4/5
Blurb : 2.5/5
Plot : 3.5/5
Language Used : 4/5
Presentation : 3/5
Overall : 3.5/5
About the Book : The story revolves around a girl named Sunita Rishi and a boy named Akshay Malhotra. Born and brought up in a traditional and typical Rishi family Sunita's father wants her to get married as she is approaching 21. Though she is not against getting married, she is concerned about her career and freedom which has never been her father's priority. She feels depressed with the idea of getting married and felt worse as she does not have any say in matters related to her own life. Akshay is a successful businessman and helps his father to run the family business. Akshay almost skipped a beat hearing his father about his marriage proposal. Blessed with a charming personality he thinks of wedding to be an end to his freedom. Families of both Sunita Rishi and Akshay Malhotra are ready to tie knots while Sunita has her plans to simply make the boy say "NO" to her. What would be the result of their meeting? Would she become "The Malhotra Bride"? Find out by reading this novel.
About Writing : Sundari Venkatraman has crafted the story very well by keeping it simple yet interesting. The choice of subject is noteworthy as almost every reader can relate and connect to the story without any difficulty. One of the best things about her writing is that she has kept the flow and tone of the story remarkably smooth and understandable. There is no denying the fact that once you start reading this novel you won't be able to put it down. The story is not thrilling and adventure driven rather it is soothing to mind and one can read the whole story in one go . Its magic of her words and plots which places a permanent smile on one's face while reading and makes one feel the emotions involved in the story. No doubt the author has written each word from depth of her hearth and has poured her experience and wit in the story. I enjoyed reading this novel very much. Though there is nothing unpredictable about the story but even that has it own charm which adds value to it. The word usage is decent and every chapter makes you feel good while you read it. All the characters are beautifully sketched and are believable. One can simply relate each character to people around in the society.
The theme of the novel makes the reader understand the concept of love and importance of knowing one's partner. It is the understanding between the couple that matters the most. Giving respect and importance to partner's thoughts, dreams and ideologies makes the couple understand each other which further strengthens their relationship.
Critical Review:
1. The blurb of the story does not suggest the whole idea of the novel.
2. The novel is a light read and portrays just one side of the so called "Marriage Fears".
3. It offers too less to change reader's perception about marriage.
Despite all critical views, the words and story seem to come out from depth of Author’s heart and her effort is appreciable. I once again congratulate her and wish her luck for her future endeavors.
March 31, 2020
O.5 stars .
This book was wrong for me on many levels.
A very dramatic , unbelievable, trashy depiction of a love story between two privileged people, who fill all the criteria seen in Indian matrimonial ads.
The story of how Sunita , a 20.yest old rich Indian version of a Barbie doll was initially against the idea of being wedded to Akshay , an Indian Ken.
There were the requisite rich parents , harsh on Sunita s part and doting on Akshay's.
The book was replete with patriarchy and stereotyping of the highest order, which was nauseating .
I completed this only because of the morbid fascination with how much more trashy this tale will get. And I wasn't disappointed.🥺
This book was wrong for me on many levels.
A very dramatic , unbelievable, trashy depiction of a love story between two privileged people, who fill all the criteria seen in Indian matrimonial ads.
The story of how Sunita , a 20.yest old rich Indian version of a Barbie doll was initially against the idea of being wedded to Akshay , an Indian Ken.
There were the requisite rich parents , harsh on Sunita s part and doting on Akshay's.
The book was replete with patriarchy and stereotyping of the highest order, which was nauseating .
I completed this only because of the morbid fascination with how much more trashy this tale will get. And I wasn't disappointed.🥺
March 7, 2014
Sunita is just twenty and bubbling with excitement to start her dream life of a career woman where she is free and self independent. But her parents have different ideas. They want her married as soon as possible. Her father her even set his eyes on a most suitable match for her. The only son of the illustrious Malhotra family, who own the Malhotra garments, Akshay is his choice. Despite Sunita's objections, a date is set for the two families to meet and Sunita is told to be ready.
What will Sunita do?
She doesnt want to get married so soon. She wants to be someone. Stand on her own feet. But this is not the trend in her house. Gokul Rishi, her father, "was a very strict father and strongly believed that women should be occasionally seen and never heard." Ever since her childhood, Sunita had to fight for every single thing in her life and her ally in all these conquests was her grandfather. This time, however, even her grandfather is helpless and she is on her own.
Akshay on the other hand is also against an arranged marriage and feels that his current life of "work hard and play harder" is working quite well without the added stress of marriage. A billionaire with killer looks, girls have always been abundant but still he agrees to meet the girl and see for himself.
What happens when these two very different people meet is the story behind The Malhotra Bride.
Will sparks fly or will there be a disastrous fire?
How will Sunita rid herself of Akshay and follow her life as she wishes?
A clean and sweet love story of a girl who wants to be free to live her life as she wishes but is forced to conform to age old traditions is very beautifully and interestingly narrated by Sundari in her new book, The Malhotra Bride.
The characterization is expertly done and each character plays its part to perfection. Sunita is headstrong as well as innocent in many ways. She craves the love of her parents and often does things she doesn't agree to just to please them. Her parents, Gokul and Leela are as conservative as they come. Gokul is strict and often behaves like he is superior to his wife and daughters just because he is a man. Leela has adapted her life as per her husband's wishes and does anything in her power to comply to him even when she doesn't agree to his actions. Sandhya, Sunita's elder sister, is her opposite in every way. She is happy to conform to all traditions and even got married at her parent's bidding at the tender age of eighteen. Then there is her grandfather who is quite practical and modern in his outlook and has always supported Sunita in her attempts at getting a degree and living her life as per her wishes. Akshay is our modern guy but still very respectful towards his parents and although educated abroad, cherishes his culture. Akshay's parents are modern day, practical parents who don't believe that a woman's place is in the kitchen and Mr. Malhotra has always encouraged his wife to stand on her own feet and live as she wants.
There are varied characters here and it is quite interesting to study them. I could empathize with Sunita and feel her helplessness. Even though its the twenty first century and people act all modern but still there are some who are still stuck in the age old version of traditions that give men more power over women. They don't want to move on with time and often force their family also to comply with them. Gokul's character is one such reflection of such people. Meanwhile Akshay's family stands for the practical minded people who value their family's happiness over traditions and are willing to change with time.
The scenes with Sunita and Akshay were warm, happy and fun moments where I definitely felt that true love originates from friendship. People become friends first before becoming lovers. The writing style of Sundari is simple yet very captivating and she is able to hold the reader and keep him engrossed in the story till the very end.
I loved this breezy love story which will connect with you instantly and you will feel like it is your own story or a story of a known person in your life. A story that is heart touching and which will leave you feeling happy and warm, I give The Malhotra Bride a 4 out of 5 and recommend that you read this sweet story of a girl who never wanted to marry but still happily became The Malhotra Bride!
Read the book to know why. :)
I received the book from the authoress and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
This review is also available on my blog Njkinny's World of Books
What will Sunita do?
She doesnt want to get married so soon. She wants to be someone. Stand on her own feet. But this is not the trend in her house. Gokul Rishi, her father, "was a very strict father and strongly believed that women should be occasionally seen and never heard." Ever since her childhood, Sunita had to fight for every single thing in her life and her ally in all these conquests was her grandfather. This time, however, even her grandfather is helpless and she is on her own.
Akshay on the other hand is also against an arranged marriage and feels that his current life of "work hard and play harder" is working quite well without the added stress of marriage. A billionaire with killer looks, girls have always been abundant but still he agrees to meet the girl and see for himself.
What happens when these two very different people meet is the story behind The Malhotra Bride.
Will sparks fly or will there be a disastrous fire?
How will Sunita rid herself of Akshay and follow her life as she wishes?
A clean and sweet love story of a girl who wants to be free to live her life as she wishes but is forced to conform to age old traditions is very beautifully and interestingly narrated by Sundari in her new book, The Malhotra Bride.
The characterization is expertly done and each character plays its part to perfection. Sunita is headstrong as well as innocent in many ways. She craves the love of her parents and often does things she doesn't agree to just to please them. Her parents, Gokul and Leela are as conservative as they come. Gokul is strict and often behaves like he is superior to his wife and daughters just because he is a man. Leela has adapted her life as per her husband's wishes and does anything in her power to comply to him even when she doesn't agree to his actions. Sandhya, Sunita's elder sister, is her opposite in every way. She is happy to conform to all traditions and even got married at her parent's bidding at the tender age of eighteen. Then there is her grandfather who is quite practical and modern in his outlook and has always supported Sunita in her attempts at getting a degree and living her life as per her wishes. Akshay is our modern guy but still very respectful towards his parents and although educated abroad, cherishes his culture. Akshay's parents are modern day, practical parents who don't believe that a woman's place is in the kitchen and Mr. Malhotra has always encouraged his wife to stand on her own feet and live as she wants.
There are varied characters here and it is quite interesting to study them. I could empathize with Sunita and feel her helplessness. Even though its the twenty first century and people act all modern but still there are some who are still stuck in the age old version of traditions that give men more power over women. They don't want to move on with time and often force their family also to comply with them. Gokul's character is one such reflection of such people. Meanwhile Akshay's family stands for the practical minded people who value their family's happiness over traditions and are willing to change with time.
The scenes with Sunita and Akshay were warm, happy and fun moments where I definitely felt that true love originates from friendship. People become friends first before becoming lovers. The writing style of Sundari is simple yet very captivating and she is able to hold the reader and keep him engrossed in the story till the very end.
I loved this breezy love story which will connect with you instantly and you will feel like it is your own story or a story of a known person in your life. A story that is heart touching and which will leave you feeling happy and warm, I give The Malhotra Bride a 4 out of 5 and recommend that you read this sweet story of a girl who never wanted to marry but still happily became The Malhotra Bride!
Read the book to know why. :)
I received the book from the authoress and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
This review is also available on my blog Njkinny's World of Books
March 11, 2014
The Malhotra Bride is Author Sundari Venkatraman’s second novel, the first being Double Jeopardy. With this novel the author has forayed into the self-publishing world and I wish her lots of luck and hope she’ll sell lots of copies.
Suneeta is a beautiful and lively girl who wants to chase her dreams of becoming an interior designer so when her parents ‘fix’ her marriage with the most eligible bachelor in town – Akshay Malhotra of the Malhotra Garments, she hatches a plan to get rid of the prospective groom. Even though Akshay is quite smitten by Suneeta and is ready to allow her the freedom she desires, she doesn’t relent and sends Akshay packing. But when she comes to know that her very strict parents are planning to hold a ‘swayamvar’ for her, she hesitatingly signs a ‘contract’ with Akshay to be his bride. Whether she becomes the Malhotra Bride or not is for you to read and find out my dear readers.
The novella was a light and breezy read and I finished it in a single sitting of 3-4 hours. Yes, that’s how engaging and interesting the story is! I couldn’t keep the book down and was compelled by Suneeta and Akshay to turn page after page. The first thing that attracts me to a book are the characters and I found beautifully sketched-out and real characters in this one. Starting with the strict Gokul Rishi to the understanding Grandpa Ratan to The Malhotras, all were interesting as well as believable. I think, of all the characters in this novella, Grandpa Ratan (or dadaji as he is fondly called), steals the show! Sundari has a strong voice and it comes across in the narration. The plot is full of unexpected twists and this makes the book un-putdownable. I did wish though that the conflict were more intense. The ‘contract’ was not used to it’s full potential. I wondered to myself what if both sets of parents had found out about it? And then, what if Grandpa Ratan had found out about it? It would have made the climax more nail-biting. But well, that’s just me and the author has done a fab job with the book so no, this doesn’t take anything away from the book.
I would recommend this book as a quick weekend read to all Romance lovers of the world. Yes, the world because some of the rituals described in the book are very visual and I’m sure everyone will enjoy them.
Suneeta is a beautiful and lively girl who wants to chase her dreams of becoming an interior designer so when her parents ‘fix’ her marriage with the most eligible bachelor in town – Akshay Malhotra of the Malhotra Garments, she hatches a plan to get rid of the prospective groom. Even though Akshay is quite smitten by Suneeta and is ready to allow her the freedom she desires, she doesn’t relent and sends Akshay packing. But when she comes to know that her very strict parents are planning to hold a ‘swayamvar’ for her, she hesitatingly signs a ‘contract’ with Akshay to be his bride. Whether she becomes the Malhotra Bride or not is for you to read and find out my dear readers.
The novella was a light and breezy read and I finished it in a single sitting of 3-4 hours. Yes, that’s how engaging and interesting the story is! I couldn’t keep the book down and was compelled by Suneeta and Akshay to turn page after page. The first thing that attracts me to a book are the characters and I found beautifully sketched-out and real characters in this one. Starting with the strict Gokul Rishi to the understanding Grandpa Ratan to The Malhotras, all were interesting as well as believable. I think, of all the characters in this novella, Grandpa Ratan (or dadaji as he is fondly called), steals the show! Sundari has a strong voice and it comes across in the narration. The plot is full of unexpected twists and this makes the book un-putdownable. I did wish though that the conflict were more intense. The ‘contract’ was not used to it’s full potential. I wondered to myself what if both sets of parents had found out about it? And then, what if Grandpa Ratan had found out about it? It would have made the climax more nail-biting. But well, that’s just me and the author has done a fab job with the book so no, this doesn’t take anything away from the book.
I would recommend this book as a quick weekend read to all Romance lovers of the world. Yes, the world because some of the rituals described in the book are very visual and I’m sure everyone will enjoy them.
July 3, 2014
Are Arranged Marriages the Best Kind?
This is a romantic novel more for Young Adults who desire to learn more about the culture of Mumbai and India. Sunita Risfi is twenty years old and wants to never marry as she doesn’t desire to just remain a house wife and mother, subject to her husband’s rule. This is what she sees in her home. However, her parents, and especially her father Gokul Risfi are determined that she will marry, and soon, someone whom they will select for her. Gokul makes arrangements with Raj Mahotra for Raj’s son, Akshay, to marry Sunita. Neither Sunita nor Akshay have met each other before. Akshay is a sophisticated young man, who has been around a lot and is not prepared to get married at this time, at least as a member of an arranged marriage.
After Sunita and Akshay separately have been told of their arranged marriage, and both are plotting as to how they can elude this, Akshay, who is described as a gorgeous hunk of man, manages to see Sunita without her knowing who he is, and he believes her to be the most beautiful woman he has ever seen.
Sunita is portrayed as a young virgin with little sexual knowledge and no experience. Akshay discovers this upon meeting her and entices her into signing a prenuptial contract so that if their marriage does not work out, they can part. It is the only way he can convince her to enter into an arrangement marriage with him.
The weakness in this writing is that several times the scenes are repetitious describing how Sunita appears to Akshay and he to her. And the first few chapters of the book, American slang has been thrown in that takes away the beauty and mystique of India. As the chapters progress, then more substance is added to the plot, although it still has the diction and emotions of teenagers. That is why I am only giving it three stars and consider it YA genre.
This book was given to me as a complimentary copy for an honest review.
This is a romantic novel more for Young Adults who desire to learn more about the culture of Mumbai and India. Sunita Risfi is twenty years old and wants to never marry as she doesn’t desire to just remain a house wife and mother, subject to her husband’s rule. This is what she sees in her home. However, her parents, and especially her father Gokul Risfi are determined that she will marry, and soon, someone whom they will select for her. Gokul makes arrangements with Raj Mahotra for Raj’s son, Akshay, to marry Sunita. Neither Sunita nor Akshay have met each other before. Akshay is a sophisticated young man, who has been around a lot and is not prepared to get married at this time, at least as a member of an arranged marriage.
After Sunita and Akshay separately have been told of their arranged marriage, and both are plotting as to how they can elude this, Akshay, who is described as a gorgeous hunk of man, manages to see Sunita without her knowing who he is, and he believes her to be the most beautiful woman he has ever seen.
Sunita is portrayed as a young virgin with little sexual knowledge and no experience. Akshay discovers this upon meeting her and entices her into signing a prenuptial contract so that if their marriage does not work out, they can part. It is the only way he can convince her to enter into an arrangement marriage with him.
The weakness in this writing is that several times the scenes are repetitious describing how Sunita appears to Akshay and he to her. And the first few chapters of the book, American slang has been thrown in that takes away the beauty and mystique of India. As the chapters progress, then more substance is added to the plot, although it still has the diction and emotions of teenagers. That is why I am only giving it three stars and consider it YA genre.
This book was given to me as a complimentary copy for an honest review.
March 31, 2019
A stunner indeed!
Oh! What a beauty!
After reading her books in sequence till now, by now, I can confidently say Sundari has definitely got a ME degree. (Master of Emotions). I doubt anyone else can come a distant second to her.
Each character's emotion is so perfectly portrayed in detail, you need to salute her.
A reluctant couple, an unnecessary bond as a spoke in their life just for a kind of "twist", a "young at heart" grandpa with his adorable grand daughter. A strict father on one side with family members scared of him, and liberal parents on the other hand. We meet such characters in daily life, too.
The story goes smoothly, with Akshay wooing the reluctant Sunita, the time when Sunita took over and put down her foot and cancelled the
Boutique visit and dinner booking because Akshay needed much needed rest, rather sleep.
The typical engagement ceremony,etc.
The shooting was a stunner. Never expected such a twist to the smooth riding tale.
Sunita took over and saved Akshay.
Only Sunita can come with such a spice in the dish. Amazing. 👍
The response from Sunita's father was expected, with the kind of image he was billed to have. Sunita defending Akshay was too good. Raj Malhotra, smelling that Sunita was in trouble and without her phone, getting help from his trusted friend and saving her and his son's marriage.
Wow! What a father.
Grandpa mentioning his stand as head of the family and going ahead with the marriage, Gokul getting some sense finally and pleading forgiveness.
Raj was a gem to hug him and the "all that's well, ends well" scenario.
Finally, the prince and the princess destroy the unnecessary bond and go on to lead a happy married life.
Do read this story in detail.
It's an awesome romantic story worth being made into a movie. 👌
Oh! What a beauty!
After reading her books in sequence till now, by now, I can confidently say Sundari has definitely got a ME degree. (Master of Emotions). I doubt anyone else can come a distant second to her.
Each character's emotion is so perfectly portrayed in detail, you need to salute her.
A reluctant couple, an unnecessary bond as a spoke in their life just for a kind of "twist", a "young at heart" grandpa with his adorable grand daughter. A strict father on one side with family members scared of him, and liberal parents on the other hand. We meet such characters in daily life, too.
The story goes smoothly, with Akshay wooing the reluctant Sunita, the time when Sunita took over and put down her foot and cancelled the
Boutique visit and dinner booking because Akshay needed much needed rest, rather sleep.
The typical engagement ceremony,etc.
The shooting was a stunner. Never expected such a twist to the smooth riding tale.
Sunita took over and saved Akshay.
Only Sunita can come with such a spice in the dish. Amazing. 👍
The response from Sunita's father was expected, with the kind of image he was billed to have. Sunita defending Akshay was too good. Raj Malhotra, smelling that Sunita was in trouble and without her phone, getting help from his trusted friend and saving her and his son's marriage.
Wow! What a father.
Grandpa mentioning his stand as head of the family and going ahead with the marriage, Gokul getting some sense finally and pleading forgiveness.
Raj was a gem to hug him and the "all that's well, ends well" scenario.
Finally, the prince and the princess destroy the unnecessary bond and go on to lead a happy married life.
Do read this story in detail.
It's an awesome romantic story worth being made into a movie. 👌
February 11, 2015
Sunita’s father was very strict and “strongly believed that women should be occasionally seen and never heard,” which makes Sunita’s dream of real life and independence hard to achieve, especially when father declares he’s found the perfect husband for her. But Sunita’s planned husband is just as independent as she, and fireworks ensue, humorously told in Sundari Venkatraman’s the Malhotra Bride.
Filled with vivid and thoroughly detailed descriptions, this short romance brings India to life for its readers, inviting them to share the delights of many flavored foods, the beauties of clothing, the traditions of an Indian wedding, and much much more. Plus there’s danger on these city streets, and not just from an over-protective father.
The dialog has a pleasingly authentic feel, and enjoyable humor. Traditions become vividly real, and can be well-imagined from the rich level of detail. A powerfully successful Indian world provides an exciting and enticing backdrop to well-choreographed romance, and the occasional bedroom scene of honest love. Sunita may even feel cherished by the end of this tale, and readers will enjoy the sensation along with her.
Disclosure: The author gave me a free ecopy for which I offer my honest review.
Filled with vivid and thoroughly detailed descriptions, this short romance brings India to life for its readers, inviting them to share the delights of many flavored foods, the beauties of clothing, the traditions of an Indian wedding, and much much more. Plus there’s danger on these city streets, and not just from an over-protective father.
The dialog has a pleasingly authentic feel, and enjoyable humor. Traditions become vividly real, and can be well-imagined from the rich level of detail. A powerfully successful Indian world provides an exciting and enticing backdrop to well-choreographed romance, and the occasional bedroom scene of honest love. Sunita may even feel cherished by the end of this tale, and readers will enjoy the sensation along with her.
Disclosure: The author gave me a free ecopy for which I offer my honest review.
June 2, 2014
The Malhotra Bride tells the story of Sunita, a young girl who hates the prospect of having her marriage arranged by her autocratic father. She dreams of having a career, travelling and not be bogged down in a marriage where she has to cater to the whims and fancies of her in-laws and husband. When the Malhotras, a big business family, asks for her hand, her father is delighted. But Sunita doesn't want marriage...not even when Akshay Malhotra makes her heart go pitter-patter with all his gorgeousness. Akshay, who is smitten from the moment he had spied her outside her institute, proposes a pre-nup arrangement. She would be free to fulfill her dreams, and build her career as long as they stay married for three years. Akshay has his own reasons to propose such an arrangement.
Sundari Venkatraman's story is sweet and enjoyable. I liked how she portrays Sunita as a confused young girl who wants so much more than marriage. Akshay too comes across as a likeable hero who is in tune with the modern times. It's a quick read; a sweet story that will leave you with a smile.
Sundari Venkatraman's story is sweet and enjoyable. I liked how she portrays Sunita as a confused young girl who wants so much more than marriage. Akshay too comes across as a likeable hero who is in tune with the modern times. It's a quick read; a sweet story that will leave you with a smile.
November 18, 2015
Malhotra bride is a sweet, romance drama involving innocent Sunita and handsome Akshay, both of whom belong to families with stark opposite culture and values.
Sunita, fresh out of college, is a twenty-first century girl, who wants to do something meaningful in her life, but is shackled with a conservative father. Her father pressures her to marry and settle down. Akshay, the pragmatic, is swept off his feet by first glimpse of Sunita and the fun begins. The sparks fly at both the end, but Sunita is reluctant to marry so early.
The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman, delves into Indian culture, where well-meaning parents want their daughters to marry well and early, not wanting to deviate from traditional customs with changing world. All the characters in both families are depicted strongly and Akshay, the drooling hero, with his flair to manage things with such an air of confidence and assuredness, comes across as an exceptional hero.
A recommended read.
Sunita, fresh out of college, is a twenty-first century girl, who wants to do something meaningful in her life, but is shackled with a conservative father. Her father pressures her to marry and settle down. Akshay, the pragmatic, is swept off his feet by first glimpse of Sunita and the fun begins. The sparks fly at both the end, but Sunita is reluctant to marry so early.
The Malhotra Bride written by Sundari Venkatraman, delves into Indian culture, where well-meaning parents want their daughters to marry well and early, not wanting to deviate from traditional customs with changing world. All the characters in both families are depicted strongly and Akshay, the drooling hero, with his flair to manage things with such an air of confidence and assuredness, comes across as an exceptional hero.
A recommended read.
December 31, 2013
hey d indian version of Mills & Boons author.Just finished ur book, want to re-read it already :). marvellous work.Had read your MB story but this is a full scale version.Im just going WOW & feel like laughing out loud.already grinning since 2days everytime I was reading it.
Sunita & Akshay feel like old friends of me, u give the reader that feeling and we feel the mood changes as the story moves. glad my friends are finally a couple after much hardship and will remain MADE FOR EACH OTHER ALWAYS!GO FULL THROTTLE for many more of your masterpieces.Love you, a bear hug coming your way.
Sunita & Akshay feel like old friends of me, u give the reader that feeling and we feel the mood changes as the story moves. glad my friends are finally a couple after much hardship and will remain MADE FOR EACH OTHER ALWAYS!GO FULL THROTTLE for many more of your masterpieces.Love you, a bear hug coming your way.
April 25, 2018
With the language being an easy pie, this novel seems like a sweet slice of life romance. I haven't read a relaxing romance as this in the longest time and I know only a few Indian authors who can come close to writing a perfect Mills & Boon - ish romance. However, Sundari Venkatraman nails it. She isn't called "Indian Mills & Boon Queen" for nothing.
entire book review: www.ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress.com
entire book review: www.ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress.com
March 9, 2018
The story revolves around Sunita, who is just graduated and want a career oriented girl, was going to get married as decided by her parents. That where Akshay Malhotra comes to her life. Will she get married? will she fulfill her dreams? or will do what her father says? there's much more to the story.
The author has shown the conservative nature of Sunita's parents. Like every parent, they too, are worried about securing their daughters future. They want her to be the bride of Akshay Malhotra, The most eligible bachelor in the town. Will she say yes to him? will she agree for the marriage? most importantly, will Akshay agree for arrange marriage? and then a contract happened!
I loved the plot of the story. The concept the story is really good. The author managed to show two different thinking in this book. While Sunita's parents were conservative and strict in nature, Akshay's parents, were totally opposite of that. They encouraged Sunita's dreams and pushed her to fulfill them. Mrs Malhotra, being herself a businesswoman ensured her, to fulfill all her dreams and have a career of her choice after marriage. I loved witnessing two different thinking, and personalities of parents. The author created strong characters, full of confidence. One will fall in love with Akshay's character. The way he cared for Sunita's dreams, unlike her father, was something impressive. I also loved Sunita's character, her confidence, her obedience and her thirst to fulfill her dreams and make a career was something I loved.I loved the character of Ratan Rishi- Sunita's Grandfather, who supported her grandchild in all her aspect. He always supported Sunita and showed her right part. His nature was completely opposite of his son's nature. he was more practical. The author narrated the story beautifully. the narration was smooth, crisp and connecting. The book is divided into 20 chapters, and each and every chapter is well narrated. The author has shown the reality, what a girl goes through when she is forced to get married to someone she doesn't know. The author narrated the reality with a completely new perspective. The pace of the story is also good. The flow of the story simple and serene. The tempo of the story is full of twists and turns, with some amount of mystery, romance and love. The author has used simple language, which connects the reader easily with the book. There are some grammatical errors which were ignored because of this wonderful story. There are dialogues which keep the reader hooked to the story.
I loved the title of the book, the cover is also good but could have been more creative.
WOnderful characters, crisp narration, simple language and an amazing plot makes it an interesting read. It's like a complete Bollywood movie. It's a quick, easy, Romance story with lots of drama.
read review at www.vidhyathakkar.com
February 18, 2018
Sundari Venkatraman is one of my favourite authors and I have read most of her works and enjoyed them a lot. The Malhotra Bride is a short read and is a good investment of a couple of hours. This book is the story of an arranged marriage between two rich and families, yes families, because in India you don’t just marry a person, you marry their entire family. The story deals with Sunita and Akshay, both against a traditional arranged marriage, but willing to attempt it for the sake of their parents.
The ‘girl seeing ceremony’ is arranged, but Akshay being who he is, decides to check what Sunita is all about. He sees her with her friends, and it is love at first sight for him. What happens when the ceremony does take place is another story in itself. Sunita is in no way ready to get married, but she has plans of her own and asks Akshay to draw up a prenuptial agreement so that she can have her way. The rest of the book deals with the relationship between Akshay and Sunita and makes for an interesting read. To know how the marriage turns out and how the contract plays out, you need to read this story.
The characters are believable and very much seem like someone we may know. Where Sunita’s father is the adamant and traditional father of a girl child, she is a rebel inside who reluctantly obeys her father and is struggling to live life on her own terms. Even while being the story of a common Indian family, there are some aspects which seem to be influenced by Bollywood, which again adds to the spice element of the story.
The plot moves smoothly and the narration doesn’t back down or bore the reader at any point. Overall, The Malhotra Bride is a nice romantic read and is recommended for anyone who likes happy endings and love stories.
The ‘girl seeing ceremony’ is arranged, but Akshay being who he is, decides to check what Sunita is all about. He sees her with her friends, and it is love at first sight for him. What happens when the ceremony does take place is another story in itself. Sunita is in no way ready to get married, but she has plans of her own and asks Akshay to draw up a prenuptial agreement so that she can have her way. The rest of the book deals with the relationship between Akshay and Sunita and makes for an interesting read. To know how the marriage turns out and how the contract plays out, you need to read this story.
The characters are believable and very much seem like someone we may know. Where Sunita’s father is the adamant and traditional father of a girl child, she is a rebel inside who reluctantly obeys her father and is struggling to live life on her own terms. Even while being the story of a common Indian family, there are some aspects which seem to be influenced by Bollywood, which again adds to the spice element of the story.
The plot moves smoothly and the narration doesn’t back down or bore the reader at any point. Overall, The Malhotra Bride is a nice romantic read and is recommended for anyone who likes happy endings and love stories.
April 5, 2025
Book Review: The Malhotra Bride by Sundari Venkataraman
The Malhotra Bride seems to be the first book of Sundari Venkataraman; I may be correct if it was not, who went on writing one after another and recently released her book " Tues day's Child", maybe her 69th or 70th book. Someone may refresh me. All authors love their first book. I read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
The story starts with Sunita, the young heroine, who comes to know that her father, Gokul Rishi, had invited the family of Raj Malhotra for a get-together, the purpose being for Sunita to be "seen" by the family of Malhotras for deciding to consider her as " the Malhotra bride," a prospective wife of their only son, Akshay Malhotra. Both families feel they have found out what is best for their wards, but neither Sunita nor Akshay is ready for an arranged marriage. Each has their reasons, but Akshay falls madly in love with Sunita after meeting her, and he decides to marry her just as Sunita announces her disinclination to marry him. Akshay suggests a way out to make her escape from marriage, which she initially declines but finds it attractive later as she realises her disciplinarian and traditional bound father would marry her soon to any Tom, Dick or Harry if she declines Malhotra's proposal. What happens next is a roller coaster ride for romance reading fans. This is a short novella and a compelling page-turner. As both families are ultra-rich, we are treated to opulent engagement and marriage ceremonies, akin to Barjatya's movies under Rajashri Productions. Indeed, it is an enjoyable reading in this genre of books, a fitting Indian response to famous Mills & Boons novels.
The Malhotra Bride seems to be the first book of Sundari Venkataraman; I may be correct if it was not, who went on writing one after another and recently released her book " Tues day's Child", maybe her 69th or 70th book. Someone may refresh me. All authors love their first book. I read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
The story starts with Sunita, the young heroine, who comes to know that her father, Gokul Rishi, had invited the family of Raj Malhotra for a get-together, the purpose being for Sunita to be "seen" by the family of Malhotras for deciding to consider her as " the Malhotra bride," a prospective wife of their only son, Akshay Malhotra. Both families feel they have found out what is best for their wards, but neither Sunita nor Akshay is ready for an arranged marriage. Each has their reasons, but Akshay falls madly in love with Sunita after meeting her, and he decides to marry her just as Sunita announces her disinclination to marry him. Akshay suggests a way out to make her escape from marriage, which she initially declines but finds it attractive later as she realises her disciplinarian and traditional bound father would marry her soon to any Tom, Dick or Harry if she declines Malhotra's proposal. What happens next is a roller coaster ride for romance reading fans. This is a short novella and a compelling page-turner. As both families are ultra-rich, we are treated to opulent engagement and marriage ceremonies, akin to Barjatya's movies under Rajashri Productions. Indeed, it is an enjoyable reading in this genre of books, a fitting Indian response to famous Mills & Boons novels.
January 27, 2018
I didn't actually finish it, but I read 70% of it and It doesn't seem interesting to me. The story runs at a very fast pace, it kind of seems like the characters are just talking in phrases and then aim palace was rotating fast; Its like I was reading the summary of an Indian TV serial in some kind of 'saas-bahu' magazine.
Most of the characters are perfect in themselves, like the kind of description of Akshay and Sunita; seems like perfection; I think it was more imaginary then it was real.
There were no moments that I enjoyed, it wasn't very subtle. But I appreciate that the writer wrote their ideas in a good-will manner.
Even though I might not agree with some of the plot-ideas, but I'll defend to the death her right to express it and furthermore, I encourage the writer to write some more stories. :)
Most of the characters are perfect in themselves, like the kind of description of Akshay and Sunita; seems like perfection; I think it was more imaginary then it was real.
There were no moments that I enjoyed, it wasn't very subtle. But I appreciate that the writer wrote their ideas in a good-will manner.
Even though I might not agree with some of the plot-ideas, but I'll defend to the death her right to express it and furthermore, I encourage the writer to write some more stories. :)
November 24, 2014
THE MALHOTRA BRIDE
By
Sundari Venkatraman
Rating: Four Stars
Sundari Venkatraman and the sheer stroke of her pen spells like divine magic that I want to rob for my literary pleasure. ‘The Malhotra Bride comes as a gush of fresh air that waft dash of romance, spell-bound narration, offering twinge of naughtiness and late drama unfurling in pure filmi fashion. Sundari introduces an endearing and super cool Grand Pa that you will love like anything. The loving Grandpa is someone you would wish to make your life a roller-coaster ride.
Verdict: The Malhotra Bride is a winner from pillar to post will make you revel in the beauty of love and fancying the most genuine-cum-pure emotions evoked by the heart. Love is magic and Sundari taps the villainy act that spruces up in the world of Sunita Rishi and the untoward situation that almost makes your heart stop beating. Bang! It brings your reading to a halt and finally, love triumph.
BLURB:
Sunita Rishi’s just turned twenty, having completed her graduation. She wants to fly free as a bird, explore career options and travel the world. Does she have a choice when Mamma & Pappa insist on arranging her marriage? Born in a rich business family steeped in tradition, Sunita has a tough job on her hands. Can she stop the tide?
Tall, dark and handsome, Akshay Malhotra is the catch of the decade. The only son of Billionaire Raj Malhotra, he’s in a strange fix. His father’s keen that Akshay meets Sunita with marriage in mind. He’s too close to his parents to say ‘no’ for the preliminary meeting. And then he comes face-to-face with Sunita….
Will Sunita be falling from the frying pan into the fire when she agrees to become The Malhotra Bride?
Narration:
Sundari Venkatraman has the natural gift to connect with the youth. This is something I keep repeating several times. What makes a book connect? The simple writing that touches the heart, an ode to love in weaving a simple tale that is treated in visual imagery, dialogues that remain etched in the heart and characters that you identify with. What I like with Sundari is that she takes you completely by surprise with the endearing hero, Dada-ji who swears by the apple of his eyes, Sunita. Of course, the Kahani mein twist with the bullets doing the rounds minus the nameless ‘Raja.’ Don’t look too far, Bullet Raja, I mean, the Saif Ali Khan forgettable movie. Sundari depiction of Sunita’s father Rishi as the villain-cum-patriarch that’s still exist in so many Indians and Asian families. Dictatorial! But, how true in an age where kids, in particular girls, are well-educated and are mentally sane to choose someone for themselves.
Sundari’s choice of the theme of love is very contemporary. First it’s hate for Sunita before she goes weak in the knee in front the super suave, Akshay, who takes upon himself to woo his lady love. The emotional and romance brewing between Akshay and Sunita remains the forte of the novel which captures the readers’ attention. You are in for a surprise as Sundari introduces twists and turns in this ‘romance’ dish to make it spicy till the climax. If ‘MEGHNA’ was light and breezy, ‘THE MALHOTRA BRIDE’ moves a notch higher to make it an entertaining read. It sustains your interest with back-to-back situations taking you by storm the moment you feel it’s gonna be a happy ending. Of course, it has a happy ending and ‘THE MALHOTRA BRIDE’ leaves you with the old-age feeling, Value for not just money but emotions. Moreover, the characterization and bond between the different characters, Sunita and Akshay, Sunita/Akshay with Grandpa Ratan as well as the bride with her in-laws, the Malhotras, is endearing. In short: Engrossing, gripping and high voltage drama meets love.
Minuses:
1. Yeah, you might accuse the author of being too ‘Bollywoodish’ or mushy or desi Mills and Boons type. But, who isn’t, these days? The biggest culprit is the one sitting reading and reviewing, ‘The Malhotra Bride.’
2. I feel that one factor that somewhat works against the book is the old tried-and-tested formula of going into overt details in the world of costumes worn by the groom and bride as well as their families during the Hindu marriage ceremony. The marriage ceremony gets a bit too descriptive, like the sugary Karan Johar movies. But, then, it’s the author’s creative call.
3. Sunita is today’s girl and she being uncomfortable kissing is a cliché to a certain extent in the book. Gone are the times when two flowers melt during our pot boilers of 70s and 80s. A bit hard to swallow.
Dialogues Baazi:
“You remind me so much of your Dadi. You look exactly like she did when she first fell in love with me….But, Dada-ji, I am not in love,’protested Sunita. ‘Says who?’, he challenged.”
“Then, you’ve not understood the meaning of love, my dear child.”
“You are an innocent baby and have never been kissed before….I only hope I haven’t put you off kissing..Only my heart beat so hard: I thought I might suffocate.."
Final Words:
Arranged marriages is a topic that has been repeated zillion times in an almost cliché. But, ‘The Malhotra Bride’ is a tale of arranged marriage with a difference. Sundari Venkatraman has lent her gentle touch, almost lyrical at times and treated the topic in subtle manner, alternating between restricting parents, ever-changing complexity of life and romance. ‘The Malhotra Bride’ is the perfect read, providing the right dose of emotions, love and romance. I couldn’t put this one down. Go and grab it.
March 21, 2018
Though romance is not in the top 3 of my favorite genres, I do like good love stories.
The reason why this book did not work for me is because it was full of cliches. When a run-of-the-mill 'story' is being told, the only thing that can make it different and entertaining is a different execution - which sadly isn't the case this time. The Malhotra Bride does not have anything new to offer to its readers.
It would probably make a good Suraj Barjatya movie though, and would recommend it to... well, those who like Suraj Barjatya movies.
The reason why this book did not work for me is because it was full of cliches. When a run-of-the-mill 'story' is being told, the only thing that can make it different and entertaining is a different execution - which sadly isn't the case this time. The Malhotra Bride does not have anything new to offer to its readers.
It would probably make a good Suraj Barjatya movie though, and would recommend it to... well, those who like Suraj Barjatya movies.
March 4, 2018
I first read this book in July 2015. I had just discovered Indian authors and I bought the book because of its blurb. I read it then and loved it but because I was not even aware of Goodreads I never wrote a review. Ihave now decided to revisit some of the original works that I read and at the same time write the missing reviews.
This book is double interesting to me because it gies us an insight into Indian marriages, the fight between new and old customs and Sundari gave us a very detailed description of the cerimonies which is great for the non Indian readers to learn about traditions in India. I enjoyed the book as much as I did the first time around.
This book is double interesting to me because it gies us an insight into Indian marriages, the fight between new and old customs and Sundari gave us a very detailed description of the cerimonies which is great for the non Indian readers to learn about traditions in India. I enjoyed the book as much as I did the first time around.
March 9, 2014
The Malhotra Bride is the second book I have read by the Author Sundari Venkatraman and is her first foray into self publishing. This is again a total Bollywood romance full of a few twists. Well, I did read the book in one go, so yes I was addicted to the story, waiting for the plot to unfold. Sundari has a way of tying her romances with some thrill and drama and the book ends up being an interesting and start - to - finish read.
PLOT: Twenty year old Sunita has just graduated, and dreams of having a fulfilling career as an Interior Designer. Gokul Rishi, her father has other plans for her, which involves marrying her off to the heir of the Malhotra business empire. Akshay Malhotra, is considered to be the most eligible bachelor, and at 28 has lived a very carefree life. An Arranged marriage does not tie in with his plans for the future. So this is what the story is about, how these two people who don’t want to get married meet and how does Sunita finally become the Malhotra Bride.
CHARACTERS: Sunita is a headstrong, independent and has big dreams for herself, at the same time she is traditional and has immense respect for her mother and Grandfather. She will stand up for what she believes in and will do what she thinks is necessary to fulfil her dreams. Akshay Malhotra is a typically good guy, the quintessential bollywood romantic lead (yep recall all the Prem’s and Raj’s and Rahul’s here). Sunita’s Father is the typical controlling father who thinks he knows all and tries to plan everyone’s life and keeps everyone mute and under the spell of his fear, including his wife. Ratan Rishi is Sunita’s grandfather who loves and understands her and does not agree with the way his son treats his family. The Malhotra’s are the typical modern Indian family and Akshay’s parents give him complete freedom to do what he wants. These characters are well written and the essence of each character is brought out well.
WHAT I LIKED: The plot, with its twists and turns made me feel like I was watching a movie and Ranbir Kapoor was playing Akshay. The Romance, the love story so subtle makes it feel like a real life love story. The interactions between Akshay and Sunita are written so well, almost made me wish I was Sunita. Also the relationship between Sunita and her Grandfather is written in a manner that so sincere and true, by Sundari that I think it probably comes from a very personal space.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE: I hated Sunita’s father, but then again I think Sundari wants the readers to not like him and he is intentionally written as the villain. So what I don’t like about this book, nothing really, its not perfect but comes quite close.
RATING: I would rate this book 4.5 on 5. This is another sure fire winner from the pen of the Indian Mills and Boon Queen, Sundari Venkatraman.
To read the full review and read more visit
http://wp.me/p43SOR-2E
PLOT: Twenty year old Sunita has just graduated, and dreams of having a fulfilling career as an Interior Designer. Gokul Rishi, her father has other plans for her, which involves marrying her off to the heir of the Malhotra business empire. Akshay Malhotra, is considered to be the most eligible bachelor, and at 28 has lived a very carefree life. An Arranged marriage does not tie in with his plans for the future. So this is what the story is about, how these two people who don’t want to get married meet and how does Sunita finally become the Malhotra Bride.
CHARACTERS: Sunita is a headstrong, independent and has big dreams for herself, at the same time she is traditional and has immense respect for her mother and Grandfather. She will stand up for what she believes in and will do what she thinks is necessary to fulfil her dreams. Akshay Malhotra is a typically good guy, the quintessential bollywood romantic lead (yep recall all the Prem’s and Raj’s and Rahul’s here). Sunita’s Father is the typical controlling father who thinks he knows all and tries to plan everyone’s life and keeps everyone mute and under the spell of his fear, including his wife. Ratan Rishi is Sunita’s grandfather who loves and understands her and does not agree with the way his son treats his family. The Malhotra’s are the typical modern Indian family and Akshay’s parents give him complete freedom to do what he wants. These characters are well written and the essence of each character is brought out well.
WHAT I LIKED: The plot, with its twists and turns made me feel like I was watching a movie and Ranbir Kapoor was playing Akshay. The Romance, the love story so subtle makes it feel like a real life love story. The interactions between Akshay and Sunita are written so well, almost made me wish I was Sunita. Also the relationship between Sunita and her Grandfather is written in a manner that so sincere and true, by Sundari that I think it probably comes from a very personal space.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE: I hated Sunita’s father, but then again I think Sundari wants the readers to not like him and he is intentionally written as the villain. So what I don’t like about this book, nothing really, its not perfect but comes quite close.
RATING: I would rate this book 4.5 on 5. This is another sure fire winner from the pen of the Indian Mills and Boon Queen, Sundari Venkatraman.
To read the full review and read more visit
http://wp.me/p43SOR-2E
February 4, 2018
I remember the two authors from Fingerprint! Publication often, Anita Shirodkar and Madhuri Iyer. They write stories about super-rich families of India and their tales are so apt that you can’t leave the book without completing the story. I picked another book from the same publishers written by Sundari Venkatraman named “The Malhotra Bride”. The book carries the same essence as the two authors’ books I mentioned above hence I enjoyed reading this book a lot. The best part about this book is that it has been edited well keeping it up to the mark without useless segments between the story. The book is of 222 pages which you can easily finish within few hours in a single sitting.
The narration of the story is perfect which keeps you excited in knowing what happens in the next page. The writing style of the author is very simple which makes it easy for the reader to complete the book in a sitting. The characterizations in the story is nicely done where each character is different from the other and each of them is treated equally well without ignoring for some other character. Thee book speaks about the concept of Arrange Marriages in India where the sons and daughters aren’t asked if they wish to marry a person or not and forcibly matched with the person of the parent’s choice. Author has very well put lights on this topic and made the reader understand how idiotic it is and how tough it becomes for the children to agree for such marriages.
Though the book is silly when the contractual marriage is talked of but the way this particular thing is mentioned at right points makes this book more interesting. The way both these characters couldn’t get through with each other initially and how they start falling just before marriage is very nicely written. The way the contractual marriage topic comes in the story just after the marriage gives the book a nice twist which engages the reader more with the book. The pre-climax and climax is again apt for this book. It is a nice read overall and author has done a commendable work for sure. I give this book 3.5* out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
The narration of the story is perfect which keeps you excited in knowing what happens in the next page. The writing style of the author is very simple which makes it easy for the reader to complete the book in a sitting. The characterizations in the story is nicely done where each character is different from the other and each of them is treated equally well without ignoring for some other character. Thee book speaks about the concept of Arrange Marriages in India where the sons and daughters aren’t asked if they wish to marry a person or not and forcibly matched with the person of the parent’s choice. Author has very well put lights on this topic and made the reader understand how idiotic it is and how tough it becomes for the children to agree for such marriages.
Though the book is silly when the contractual marriage is talked of but the way this particular thing is mentioned at right points makes this book more interesting. The way both these characters couldn’t get through with each other initially and how they start falling just before marriage is very nicely written. The way the contractual marriage topic comes in the story just after the marriage gives the book a nice twist which engages the reader more with the book. The pre-climax and climax is again apt for this book. It is a nice read overall and author has done a commendable work for sure. I give this book 3.5* out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
June 6, 2014
REVIEW OF THE MALHOTRA BRIDE BY SUNDARI VENKATRAMAN
From
ADIANA RAY.
Sundari sheds a spotlight on how marital relationships are formed among some business, upper class families in Mumbai. Trapped in a gilded cage, Sunita is a young vivacious girl with stars in her eyes and wants to do what so many other young girls of today want to….just explore life and create a little niche for herself with her experiences and accomplishments. Not too bad…right? Wrong, that is denied to her as it is not how her family operate. The whole family is under the thumb of her business man father and he never lets them forget it.
Akshay on the other hand also belongs to the same class of society but is lucky to be born into a forward thinking, modern household. Even though he is against the whole concept of an arranged marriage, on a whim, he decides to go and see the girl incognito and that is it… he is floored. However he has to tread carefully as Sunita is a nervous filly who is shying away from marriage as well.
The author takes us through the paces and builds up a vivid picture of the internal dynamics of these families and casts a light on society expectations too. Both the characters are well developed as are the supporting characters. The tenderness and protectiveness of Akshay, gives you a nice warm feeling and Sunita is the young wide eyed innocent, unaware of her potential. There were two minor pieces which jarred a bit with me: the first was with what Sunita does when she meets Akshay for the first time to put him off. It was all too clichéd. Though Ms Venkatraman also brings this up when she attributes embarrassment to Sunita for the way she behaved. The second was the whole violent episode at the end; I felt it was very abrupt and didn’t really fit in with the story but then that is just my opinion.
On the whole I recommend it for a very nice light read. Great work Sundari Venkatraman!
From
ADIANA RAY.
Sundari sheds a spotlight on how marital relationships are formed among some business, upper class families in Mumbai. Trapped in a gilded cage, Sunita is a young vivacious girl with stars in her eyes and wants to do what so many other young girls of today want to….just explore life and create a little niche for herself with her experiences and accomplishments. Not too bad…right? Wrong, that is denied to her as it is not how her family operate. The whole family is under the thumb of her business man father and he never lets them forget it.
Akshay on the other hand also belongs to the same class of society but is lucky to be born into a forward thinking, modern household. Even though he is against the whole concept of an arranged marriage, on a whim, he decides to go and see the girl incognito and that is it… he is floored. However he has to tread carefully as Sunita is a nervous filly who is shying away from marriage as well.
The author takes us through the paces and builds up a vivid picture of the internal dynamics of these families and casts a light on society expectations too. Both the characters are well developed as are the supporting characters. The tenderness and protectiveness of Akshay, gives you a nice warm feeling and Sunita is the young wide eyed innocent, unaware of her potential. There were two minor pieces which jarred a bit with me: the first was with what Sunita does when she meets Akshay for the first time to put him off. It was all too clichéd. Though Ms Venkatraman also brings this up when she attributes embarrassment to Sunita for the way she behaved. The second was the whole violent episode at the end; I felt it was very abrupt and didn’t really fit in with the story but then that is just my opinion.
On the whole I recommend it for a very nice light read. Great work Sundari Venkatraman!
June 17, 2015
Note : This review is up in my blog - Book And Ink
The Malhotra Bride is your typical Indian story with a backdrop of a typical Indian society which often believes that a girl should occasionally be seen and never heard. Sunita, our protagonist, is a young woman who aspires to explore and travel post her graduation. Sadly, her father seems to have other plans for her. He chooses her a groom and forces her to get married. Akshay Malhotra, the eligible bachelor and the scion of a business empire is the chosen groom. He is handsome and his family is polar opposite of Sunita’s family. When Sunita and Akshay meet, sparks fly (In spite of the hilarious situation they end up in!). Does Sunita’s fear of being chained and domesticated come true? Read the book to know that.
Sundari has written about the most prevalent practice in the country in a rather optimistic manner. The Malhotra family has set a personal standard to me. They are the sort of people I personally would want to marry into! The characterization is quite immaculate. The most memorable character for me would be Sunita’s grandfather. In spite of being from a different generation, he is far progressive than Sunita’s father Ganesh, who is quite oppressive and goes about throwing his weight as he believes he is entitled to do that, just because he is a man. Being an ambitious twenty something girl myself, who is pressurized by society to ‘marry and settle down’, I could relate to the story quite well. Thankfully, I’m blessed with parents who are nothing like Sunita’s parents.
The chemistry between Sunita and Akshay made me feel all warm and fuzzy. They are the perfect example of a friendship blossoming into love. The writing is simple and breezy, leaving the reader feeling light and happy.
MY SAY: A feel good and captivating read which is bound to leave you feeling happy.
PLOT : 8/10
NARRATION: 7/10
CHARACTERISATION: 7/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 2/10 (the lower the better!)
OVERALL RATING: 7/10
The Malhotra Bride is your typical Indian story with a backdrop of a typical Indian society which often believes that a girl should occasionally be seen and never heard. Sunita, our protagonist, is a young woman who aspires to explore and travel post her graduation. Sadly, her father seems to have other plans for her. He chooses her a groom and forces her to get married. Akshay Malhotra, the eligible bachelor and the scion of a business empire is the chosen groom. He is handsome and his family is polar opposite of Sunita’s family. When Sunita and Akshay meet, sparks fly (In spite of the hilarious situation they end up in!). Does Sunita’s fear of being chained and domesticated come true? Read the book to know that.
Sundari has written about the most prevalent practice in the country in a rather optimistic manner. The Malhotra family has set a personal standard to me. They are the sort of people I personally would want to marry into! The characterization is quite immaculate. The most memorable character for me would be Sunita’s grandfather. In spite of being from a different generation, he is far progressive than Sunita’s father Ganesh, who is quite oppressive and goes about throwing his weight as he believes he is entitled to do that, just because he is a man. Being an ambitious twenty something girl myself, who is pressurized by society to ‘marry and settle down’, I could relate to the story quite well. Thankfully, I’m blessed with parents who are nothing like Sunita’s parents.
The chemistry between Sunita and Akshay made me feel all warm and fuzzy. They are the perfect example of a friendship blossoming into love. The writing is simple and breezy, leaving the reader feeling light and happy.
MY SAY: A feel good and captivating read which is bound to leave you feeling happy.
PLOT : 8/10
NARRATION: 7/10
CHARACTERISATION: 7/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 2/10 (the lower the better!)
OVERALL RATING: 7/10
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